25 minute Kent Heritage Helicopter Tour

If you’re thinking about adding a touch of adventure to your trip to England, a helicopter tour over Kent might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, the reviews and details available paint a clear picture of what to expect. This experience promises a quick, scenic flight packed with historic sights, all in a private helicopter setting.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines stunning aerial views with a concise, well-planned route that covers some of Kent’s most iconic landmarks. Plus, the pilot commentary can turn a simple sightseeing flight into a mini history lesson. One potential downside? The price tag is on the higher side, and weather can be a limiting factor, which is pretty common with helicopter rides.

This kind of experience suits travelers who are short on time but eager for a memorable, exclusive perspective of Kent. It’s perfect if you’re celebrating something special or just want a unique way to see the countryside without the hassle of a long day of touring.

Key Points

• Stunning Aerial Views: Expect sweeping vistas of castles, historic houses, and rolling countryside.
• Private Experience: The tour is exclusive to your group, making it more personalized.
• Time-Efficient: At just 20 to 25 minutes, it’s a quick yet impactful sightseeing option.
• Weather Dependent: Flights are subject to suitable weather, so flexibility might be needed.
• Good for History Lovers: See sites like Hever Castle, Churchill’s Chartwell, and Ightham Mote from the sky.
• Cost Consideration: The price is relatively high, but it includes the helicopter hire and all fees.

What the Tour Entails: A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The flight begins at Redhill Aerodrome, which is a bit outside London, so if you’re staying centrally, plan your transfer accordingly. From there, the pilot takes you eastward over some of Kent’s most beloved sights.

Edenbridge is the first stop—this quaint town sets the tone for your journey with its charming countryside views. Then, your eyes will be drawn to Hever Castle, famous as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. It’s an instantly recognizable sight with its fairytale towers, making it a favorite for history buffs and photo enthusiasts alike.

Continuing east, you’ll fly over Chiddingstone Castle, a Tudor-era estate that looks right out of a storybook. Not far from there, Penshurst Place comes into view—a huge, well-preserved medieval manor that’s been the Sidney family’s home since the 1500s. It’s impressive to see from above, highlighting just how much history is packed into this corner of England.

The next stretch takes you north towards the North Downs and the town of Sevenoaks. Here, you’ll enjoy a glance at Ightham Mote, a complete medieval manor house that’s often called the most intact small castle or manor in the country. From here, the views open up over the sprawling countryside.

Your flight continues over Knole House, an enormous stately home with a claim to having 365 rooms—one for every day of the year. Set within a large park, this is a stunning sight, especially from a perspective that emphasizes its scale and beauty. The tour then heads westward, over Chartwell, Winston Churchill’s beloved home, giving you a sense of the man behind some of Britain’s most defining moments.

Finally, as you begin your descent back towards Redhill, you’ll have the Gatwick Airport in the distance, framing a final shot of the vibrant Kent landscape.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The duration of this helicopter ride is roughly 20 to 25 minutes, during which you’ll get plenty of time to soak in the views. The helicopter is hired exclusively for your group of up to three, making it a private outing—ideal for celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying some exclusive sightseeing.

The pilot is a key part of the experience. Reviews highlight how knowledgeable and confident the pilots are, with one reviewer mentioning how pilot Bob made them feel safe with his steady hand and friendly demeanor. Another noted that Tim was “really funny,” adding a lighthearted touch to the flight.

You should expect a smooth ride, as long as weather conditions allow. The tour includes pilot commentary, which helps put the sights into context, sharing bits of history and tidbits about each landmark along the way. This makes the experience educational as well as breathtaking.

Practical Details: Costs, Booking, and Requirements

At $997.79 per group, this experience isn’t exactly budget-friendly, but it does include the helicopter hire and all taxes and fees. Considering the exclusivity and the high vantage point it offers, many find it to be good value—especially if you’re looking for a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime kind of outing.

Booking generally occurs about 13 days in advance, but you can sometimes book closer to the date if availability permits. The tour runs Tuesday to Sunday, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, which provides some flexibility for planning around other activities.

For safety and comfort, there’s a weight limit of 209 lbs per passenger, and passengers over 15 stone (95 kg) should contact the company beforehand. Children must be at least 6 years old and be accompanied by an adult. Make sure to bring photo ID on the day, and remember, flights are subject to weather conditions, so flexibility is necessary.

What Past Travelers Say: Authentic Feedback

While the reviews are limited, the feedback provides some useful insights. One reviewer, who called it a “perfect birthday gift,” appreciated the beautifully clear day and felt safe thanks to the pilot’s steady hand. Conversely, a less favorable review described a frustrating experience with the company, citing difficulty locating the meeting point and poor signage. This highlights the importance of clear directions and communication from the provider.

The most positive comments come from those who enjoyed the stunning scenery and found the pilot’s explanations engaging. One reviewer specifically mentioned how the views of gardens, mazes, and castles from above made the experience unforgettable.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those who have a limited amount of time but want to pack in as much beauty and history as possible, this helicopter tour offers a remarkable way to see Kent. The privately chartered helicopter ensures a personalized experience, and the views you’ll get of castles, historic houses, and the lush countryside are genuinely impressive.

This tour is especially well-suited for history enthusiasts, couples celebrating a special occasion, or friends looking for a unique adventure. If you’re comfortable with the cost and don’t mind the weather-dependent nature of helicopter flights, it’s a fantastic way to add a touch of luxury and excitement to your visit.

Keep in mind, if you’re after a more comprehensive exploration of Kent, this is not a substitute for full-day tours. But as a highlight reel from the sky—well, it’s pretty hard to beat. Just be prepared for the weather, and consider the timing and your group’s comfort when booking.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 20 to 25 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the views without it feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the helicopter rental for your private group, along with all taxes and fees. It does not include transportation to and from Redhill Aerodrome.

Can I book last minute?
Most bookings are made about 13 days in advance, but you might find availability closer to your preferred date. Flights are available Tuesday to Sunday, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, subject to weather.

Are there age or weight restrictions?
Yes, minimum age is 6 years, and each passenger must weigh no more than 209 lbs (95 kg). Those over 15 stone should contact the provider ahead of time.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights are weather dependent. If conditions are unsuitable, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children must be at least 6 years old and be accompanied by an adult. For younger kids or larger groups, check with the provider beforehand.

This helicopter tour over Kent offers a quick, exclusive glimpse into the region’s most beautiful and historic sites. For those craving an adventure from above, it’s a memorable, if pricier, way to see the countryside in style. Just keep the weather in mind, plan ahead, and enjoy the views!